Awards issued prior to january 20, 2025, were funded under previous administrations and may not reflect the priorities and policies of the current administration.** the USDA nifa sbir phase II project…

Awards issued prior to january 20, 2025, were funded under previous administrations and may not reflect the priorities and policies of the current administration.** the USDA nifa sbir phase II project aims to innovate, optimize, and commercialize apex-FLB (fly liquid bait). Apex-FLB is a cost-effective and highly efficient liquid bait that attracts and eliminates stable fliesin livestock production systems while being safe for non-target organisms. Stable flies are a major menace to livestock animals, causing significant economic losses in the beef and dairy industries, estimated at $2.01 billion and $402 million annually, respectively. Other industries and even humans are also affected by stable fly bites, highlighting the widespread need for an effective stable fly control solution. Existing methods for stable fly management, such as sanitation, insecticide treatment, and trap deployment, have limitations. Chemical insecticides are widely used but face resistance issues, environmental concerns, and high costs. Apex bait technologies, INC. Has developed apex-FLB, which attracts stable flies and ensures their direct consumption of toxicants, leading to complete mortality without resistance development. Our prototype has demonstrated over 90% stable fly mortality within two days in lab and field trials. In phase II, we aim to innovate and optimize the apex-FLB prototype for cost-effectiveness, environmental stability, efficacy, and efficiency.apex bait technologies' extensive experience in developing and commercializing baits for urban and veterinary pests strengthens our commitment to successfully develop and commercialize apex-FLB for stable fly control.